Roster Shuffles as Training Camp Begins

Training Camp practices begin today – yes, Broncos fans, football is here again. With the break of camp comes the first roster moves, and true to their offseason as a whole, the Broncos have been busy. Yesterday afternoon, the Denver Broncos waived Defensive End Kenny Peterson and everyone’s favorite fullback, Thump Belton. It appears that Kenny Peterson’s time away from the team was much shorter than most expected – the team re-signed the former Green Bay product today.

After announcing yesterday that linebacker Eddie Moore needed more work on his knee, the club waived him today, saying he could return to the team if he passes waivers but would only be placed on injured reserve in that situation. Moore’s 2007 season is effectively done either way, and there’s no doubt that this hurts our depth at linebacker when we’re relying on competition to set our starter at SAM.

The news with Moore likely sparked the signing that took place this morning – LB Wesly Mallard, a bit of an ace on Special Teams, was signed. In six years with the Giants and Patriots, Mallard has 43 stops on Special Teams and will impact that area more than anything. He will also be given the opportunity to compete at SAM, but I can’t see him elevating to a starter position there.

At 6-1, 230 lbs., Mallard has the size you’re looking for in a linebacker. He was a bit of a track star, showing that he has the speed as well. He also started at linebacker for the school in his senior year, where he succeeded in leading the team with 111 tackles and being elected as a second team All-Pac 10 selection. In the NFL, Mallard never saw that success – but with the size, strength and speed that Mallard has demonstrated in the past, he will at least help our Special Teams if he can crack the 53-man roster.

Finally in news this morning, Defensive End Carlos Hall was placed on the Reserved/Did not report list.

The Broncos are practicing this morning and again at 3:50 p.m. – if you’re lucky enough to live in the vicinity of Englewood, Colorado, walk away from your computer immediately and go watch the future Super Bowl champs at work.